Top 40 Best Chinese Anime or Best Donghua That You Should Check Out

In China, animated series are referred to as “Donghua.” While they often incorporate stylistic elements from Japanese anime, Donghua infuses its narratives with rich cultural significance and folklore, creating a unique animation style. Although Chinese anime may not yet enjoy the same level of popularity as Japanese counterparts, there are hidden gems worth exploring. Here, we present some of the best Chinese anime you should definitely check out. You can watch them on platforms like Kurnia (make sure to select videos with English subtitles).

1. To Be Hero

Genre: Comedy
Synopsis: This series follows a handsome, divorced father who designs toilet seats and lives with his teenage daughter. His mundane life takes a bizarre turn when he finds himself sucked into a toilet seat, where he is transformed into a superhero. However, his new appearance is anything but glamorous; he becomes an ugly yet powerful hero tasked with saving the planet. The comedic elements shine as he juggles his responsibilities as a father and a hero, leading to hilarious situations.

2. Who Made Me a Princess

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Reincarnation
Synopsis: The story centers around a girl who is reincarnated as Athanasia, the daughter of a ruthless emperor who kills her in the original timeline. Determined to change her fate, she navigates palace intrigues, forming relationships and alliances to avoid her father’s deadly wrath. Her cunning and charm help her adapt to the opulent yet perilous life of royalty, as she learns how to survive in a world where her life is in constant danger.

3. Link Click

Genres: Drama, Supernatural
Synopsis: This intriguing series follows Lu Guang and Cheng Xiaoshi, who own a photo studio with a unique ability: they can enter photos and interact with the past. Each episode presents a new customer’s request, leading them to explore different stories and outcomes while facing unexpected challenges. Their supernatural adventures delve into themes of fate, responsibility, and the consequences of altering reality.

4. Wu Geng Ji (Feng Shen Ji)

Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Martial Arts
Synopsis: Adapted from the manhua “Feng Shen Ji,” this epic tale explores the conflict between gods and humanity. The story focuses on Emperor Zi Zhou, who rebels against the tyranny of the heavens after years of oppression. As he leads a rebellion against divine forces, he faces powerful gods and dark entities. The narrative combines action-packed battles with deep philosophical themes about power, justice, and sacrifice.

5. Huyao Xiao Hongniang (Fox Spirit Matchmaker)

Genre: Action, Fantasy, Romance
Synopsis: Set in a world where humans and spirits coexist, this series follows the fox spirit matchmaker who helps spirits reconnect with their human lovers. Despite the beauty of their love stories, the spirits face the tragedy of losing their partners to the fleeting nature of life. The matchmaker provides a service that allows spirits to recover memories of their past lives, leading to emotional reunions and heartfelt moments filled with both joy and sorrow.

6. Under One Person (Hitori no Shita: The Outcast)

Genre: Action, Fantasy, Comedy
Synopsis: College student Chou Soran finds himself embroiled in chaos while visiting his grandfather’s grave, encountering zombies and a mysterious girl skilled in martial arts. Together, they confront the undead and uncover hidden martial arts techniques. As Soran delves into his grandfather’s past, he learns about the dark secrets of martial arts factions and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and bravery.

7. Throne of Elves

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy
Synopsis: In the mythical realm of Altera, the wedding of Elf Queen Mayre is interrupted by dark forces led by her envious sister. As Mayre’s wedding spirals into chaos, Little Fish and his friends must embark on a quest to rescue the queen and thwart the dark elves’ plans. The story combines themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice as the characters navigate the complexities of loyalty and courage in the face of danger.

8. Spirit Blade Mountain

Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy
Synopsis: The Spirit Blade Clan holds an examination to recruit new disciples, where Wang Lu, a clever and talented youth, seeks to prove his worth. With a rare spirit that only appears once in a thousand years, Wang Lu embarks on a journey filled with trials and tribulations. He faces formidable opponents and overcomes obstacles with wit and determination, striving to become a powerful sage.

9. Xue Ying Ling Zhu

Genre: Action, Adventure, Historical, Romance
Synopsis: Lord Xue Ying is a great cultivator who struggles with the legacy of his family. After his parents leave him and his younger brother, he dedicates his life to becoming the most powerful cultivator. As he travels through the world, he seeks justice and redemption, accompanied by his loyal brother. The narrative intertwines themes of familial bonds, honor, and the quest for strength.

10. Ling Yu

Genre: Fantasy, Cultivation
Synopsis: In the world of Ling Yu, where warriors are ranked by their skills, Qin Lie embarks on a journey to awaken his hidden powers. Joined by childhood friends, he faces off against powerful enemies while uncovering the truth behind his lineage. As he navigates through the complexities of cultivation, friendships, and love, the story explores the balance between power and responsibility.

11. Ze Tian Ji

Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Synopsis: In a world filled with gods and demons, Chen Chang Shang, a fourteen-year-old orphan, sets off on a quest to change his fate. Armed with a piece of a mythical meteor and a marriage vow, he learns the ways of the world and uncovers ancient secrets. The story is rich with themes of destiny, resilience, and the fight for a better life.

12. Tong Ling Fei (Psychic Princess)

Genre: Comedy, Historical, Drama, Romance
Synopsis: Qian Yunxi, the eldest daughter of the Prime Minister, possesses supernatural powers but is considered a jinx. Kept secluded in Ling Yun Mountain, she takes her sister’s place in an arranged marriage with the cold and domineering Lord Ye. As they navigate their unique relationship, their dynamic evolves, revealing their strengths and vulnerabilities.

13. Lu Shidai (Lu’s Time)

Genre: Action, Game, Adventure
Synopsis: This fan-made Donghua follows a group of gamers, led by Zhiqiang, as they form a competitive team for national MOBA tournaments. Their journey is filled with comedic moments and intense rivalries, showcasing their passion for gaming and friendship.

14. Wo De Ni Tian Shen Qi

Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Supernatural
Synopsis: Chang Tian, a sinology enthusiast, inadvertently invokes an ancient artifact during an attack by a spirit warrior. This leads him into a world of battles against other warriors, where he must harness his newfound powers to protect his friends and uncover the truth behind the artifact.

15. Shi Xiong (Zombie Brother)

Genre: Action, Comedy, Horror
Synopsis: In a city overrun by a zombie outbreak caused by contaminated water, the protagonist must survive the chaos and find his girlfriend, Wei. With humor and horror intertwined, he battles zombies while uncovering the source of the infection.

16. Heibai Wushang

Genre: Action, Comedy, Supernatural
Synopsis: This Donghua features two demon siblings tasked with maintaining the balance of the spirit world. As they navigate their duties, they aspire to become the most powerful demon spirits while avoiding responsibility, leading to comedic yet heartfelt situations.

17. Xie Wang Zhui Qi

Genre: Action, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Romance
Synopsis: Reincarnated into the body of a seemingly useless noble girl, a talented assassin must navigate her new life as a concubine of an emotionless prince. Their relationship evolves as they face challenges together, revealing deeper emotions beneath their initial facades.

18. Wan Jie Shen Zhu

Genre: Fantasy
Synopsis: Ye Chen, an ancient god, falls from his celestial realm into a world filled with conflict. As he establishes himself and builds strength, he encounters various factions vying for power, leading to epic battles and profound character growth.

19. Shao Nian Ge Xing

Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Synopsis: Following the misadventures of Lei Wu Jie and Xiao Se, this series begins with a debt dispute after Lei accidentally damages Xiao’s inn. Their journey to repay the debt leads them into a web of conflicts with assassins and powerful families, testing their friendship and resolve.

20. Wangpai Yushi

Genre: Action, Comedy, Fantasy
Synopsis: Set in a world where humans and demons coexist, this comedic series follows a supernatural organization known as “The Department of the Night.” The characters strive to maintain peace while navigating humorous interactions and thrilling supernatural events.

21. Hua Jianghu Zhi Ling Zhu

Genre: Action, Historical, Drama, Martial Arts
Synopsis: Baili Dengfeng seeks his long-lost wife while uncovering the secrets of spirit masters and the undead. His journey intertwines with the lives of various characters, leading to dramatic revelations and intense conflicts.

22. Monkey King: Hero Is Back

Genre: Adventure, Historical, Supernatural
Synopsis: Based on the legendary Monkey King from Chinese folklore, this story follows his release from imprisonment. After a child accidentally frees him, they join forces to defeat monsters threatening a small village, combining

humor, action, and themes of friendship as they navigate their adventure.

23. The Silver Guardian

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy
Synopsis: This captivating series follows Riku Suigin, a high school student and avid gamer, who becomes embroiled in a virtual world after receiving a mysterious game device from Riku Rei, the most beautiful girl in school. When Rei disappears during a gaming session, Suigin is thrust into a new game called “Grave Buster,” where he must navigate through challenges and battles to rescue her. The story beautifully blends elements of gaming, fantasy, and romance, showcasing the protagonist’s journey from ordinary to extraordinary.

24. Guomin Laogong Dai Huijia

Genre: Drama, Romance, School
Synopsis: This sweet yet complicated story revolves around Qiao An Hao and Lu Jin Nian, two characters who harbor feelings for each other but are reluctant to admit it. They enter into a marriage under the pretense of convenience, setting strict rules that complicate their relationship further. As they navigate the challenges of their unique arrangement, misunderstandings and outside forces test their bond, leading to emotional growth and realizations about love and commitment.

25. Duan Nao (Die Now)

Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Sci-Fi
Synopsis: Set in a technologically advanced future, “Die Now” explores cerebral conflicts within a vast cosmic system. The story begins with a mysterious murder that sets off a chain of events revealing horrifying conspiracies and galaxy wars. As the protagonist navigates this complex universe, the narrative delves into themes of betrayal, survival, and the darker aspects of human ambition.

26. Lan Mo De Hua (Lan Mo’s Flower)

Genre: Magic, Romance, School
Synopsis: In this enchanting story, Lan Mo is a tomboyish girl who feels invisible. Her life takes a turn when she discovers a magical hairpin that transforms her into a beautiful young lady. With newfound confidence, she hopes to capture the attention of her childhood crush, Liu Yi Feng. The series explores themes of self-acceptance, love, and the journey to finding one’s true self.

27. Jie Mo Ren

Genre: Action, Mystery, Supernatural, Fantasy
Synopsis: College freshman Zhou Xiaon inadvertently awakens a blood demon by wearing an ancient ring, thrusting him into a world of supernatural intrigue. The demon, calling itself King Zhou of Shang, reveals dark secrets about the heart-eating zombies and the hidden history of humanity. As Zhou uncovers the truth, he must navigate the dangers that come with this new knowledge.

28. Shuangsheng Lingtan

Genre: Mystery, Psychological
Synopsis: Twin brothers Sun Xiaotu and Sun Xiaohu work as paranormal investigators, tackling mysteries that others fear to approach. Their motto, “there is always more to the world than meets the eye,” drives them to explore the supernatural. As they delve deeper into their investigations, the boundaries between reality and fiction blur, leading to captivating revelations and character development.

29. Tales of Exorcism

Genre: Action, Demon, Fantasy
Synopsis: Hua Jiu is a tomboy who becomes an unlikely heroine on her adventures. Often mistaken for a man, she teams up with an evil spirit, Seven Lord, whom she forces into servitude. Together, they embark on a journey of cleansing spirits, facing powerful enemies and uncovering dark plots. The series combines humor and action with themes of friendship and redemption.

30. Big Fish & Begonia

Genre: Adventure, Supernatural, Drama, Romance
Synopsis: This visually stunning film follows Chun, a girl from a mystical underwater realm who transforms into a red dolphin to explore the human world. Her journey of self-discovery reveals deep emotional themes of sacrifice and love as she confronts the complexities of life and death. With its breathtaking animation and profound storytelling, “Big Fish & Begonia” is a must-watch.

31. Luo Xiao Hei Zhan Ji

Genre: Comedy, Supernatural
Synopsis: This charming series begins on a rainy night when a girl named Luo Xiaobai adopts a seemingly ordinary cat named Luo Xiao Hei. Unbeknownst to her, the cat is an elfin creature with magical powers, leading her into the enchanting world of spirits and supernatural beings. Their adventures reveal the rich folklore and hidden magic of the world around them.

32. The Daily Life of the Immortal King

Genre: Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Cultivation, School Life
Synopsis: Wang Ling, a gifted cultivator, has been honing his powers since childhood. Now a high school student, he struggles to keep his abilities hidden while facing the challenges of teenage life. The series masterfully blends comedy and action as Wang Ling navigates school, friendships, and supernatural threats, all while trying to maintain a low profile.

33. Rakshasa Street

Genre: Action, Shounen, Supernatural
Synopsis: Known as Requiem Street, this mystical location serves as a barrier between the spirit world and the human realm. Young Cao Bing and his brother Cao Xuan Ling must protect this street after their family disappears, navigating the challenges of spirit users and evil entities. The series explores themes of legacy, courage, and the bond between siblings in a supernatural setting.

34. Spiritpact

Genre: Action, Comedy, Magic, Shounen Ai, Supernatural
Synopsis: You Keika, a part-time worker, finds himself entangled in a supernatural contract after a chance encounter with a powerful exorcist, Tanmoku Ki. As his spirit shadow, You navigates a world filled with spirits and demons while learning the importance of protection and friendship. The series combines humor with supernatural elements, offering a fresh take on the exorcism genre.

35. Martial Movement Upheaval

Genre: Action, Historical, Supernatural, Martial Arts, Fantasy
Synopsis: This Donghua is set against the backdrop of gods and men, focusing on the struggles of Emperor Zi Zhou as he rebels against divine oppression. The story intertwines elements of historical intrigue, martial arts, and epic battles, leading to an exploration of fate and power dynamics within the universe.

36. Wu Dong Qian Kun (Martial Movement Upheaval)

Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Harem, Martial Arts
Synopsis: Following the journey of Ling Dong, a young martial artist from the Lin Clan, the narrative explores themes of self-discovery and cultivation. After losing his abilities in a tournament, he finds a stone that changes his life, igniting his path to power and mastery over life and death.

37. Xing Chen Bian (Stellar Transformation)

Genre: Action, Adventure, Historical, Romance, Martial Arts, Fantasy
Synopsis: Prince Qin Yu embarks on a journey of self-improvement after being underestimated by his father. A chance encounter with a fallen meteor grants him extraordinary abilities, leading him to train hard and earn his place in the kingdom. The series showcases his struggles and triumphs as he seeks to prove his worth.

38. Doupo Cangqiong (Battle Through the Heavens)

Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Supernatural, Romance
Synopsis: Set in a continent where cultivation is central to power, the story follows Xiao Yan, a once-promising genius who loses his abilities. As he navigates treacherous landscapes and dangerous foes, he seeks to reclaim his former glory and uncover the mysteries behind his lost powers.

39. Yaoshenji (Tales of Demons and Gods)

Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Harem, Romance, Shounen
Synopsis: Nie Li, one of the strongest demon spiritists, reincarnates into his 13-year-old self after dying in battle. Armed with knowledge from his past life, he navigates a new world filled with challenges, using his wits and skills to protect his friends and alter his destiny.

40. Quanzhi Fashi (Versatile Mage)

Genre: Action, Fantasy, Magic, School
Synopsis: Mo Fan discovers he possesses the unique ability to practice multiple magic elements, standing out in a world where most can only master one. As he navigates a magical academy filled with challenges, he must confront personal struggles and societal expectations while honing his skills.

41. Douluo Dalu (Soul Land)

Genre: Action, Adventure, Cultivation, Spirit Beasts, Fantasy
Synopsis: Tian San, dedicated to mastering hidden weapons, faces trials and challenges in the world of Douluo Dalu. The series showcases stunning combat scenes and a rich lore, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and the pursuit of strength in a fantastical setting.

42. The Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation

Genre: Action, Adventure, BL, Comedy, Mystery, Romance, Shounen Ai
Synopsis: Following the story of Wei Wuxian, a former disciple who created the demonic path, this series explores themes of redemption and love. Alongside his partner Lan Wangji, he embarks on a journey to uncover mysteries and clear his name while navigating the complexities of their relationship.

43. The King’s Avatar

Genre: Action, Gaming, Competitions
Synopsis: Ye Xiu, a legendary player in the e-sport game Glory, faces retirement after being forced out of his team. Undeterred, he begins anew, creating a fresh character and forming a new team called “Happy.” The series captures the excitement of gaming, teamwork, and the competitive spirit, offering an inspiring tale of resilience and passion.

Explore these captivating Donghua and immerse yourself in their rich narratives and stunning animation! Each title offers a unique experience, showcasing the diversity and creativity within the realm